Mood disorders are marked by any changes in mood. The two most common types of mood disorders are depression and bipolar disorder. Online therapy is effective in treating each.
Though these disorders are extremely common, the stigmatization of each of them hinders people from reaching out for help. Additionally, mood disorders are very difficult to track, and many of those suffering may not even realize there is a problem.
It's normal to experience regular shifts in your mood, but when it starts to affect your life, it may be time to seek treatment. Evaluate your moods based on the following factors to help you distinguish what's normal and what's not:
- How intense is the mood?
- How long does the mood last?
- Does it interfere with your life? If so, how?
Depression
At least 20% of Americans report one depressive symptom in any given month. Symptoms of depression include:
- Difficulty falling asleep or oversleeping
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feelings of helplessness
- Irritability
- Suicidal thoughts
- Changes in appetite
Typically, those suffering from depression will experience any of these symptoms for at least two weeks or more. Depression can affect your academic or professional performance, adding to the sadness you experience.
Though depression can leave the sufferer feeling like they're stuck in a black hole, it's easily treated and doesn't have to be a life sentence. Find an online therapist for mood disorder to talk to who can guide you through your treatment.
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is an illness marked by extreme shifts in your mood, thoughts, and behavior. A person affected by bipolar disorder can experience manic highs and depressive lows.
Such mood swings can last anywhere from a couple of hours to a few weeks, to a few months. Sometimes, these shifts sync with the seasons.
About 2.6% of American adults report symptoms of bipolar disorder. Though no single pattern exists to define symptoms, the disorder can be marked by four episodes: mania, hypomania, depression, and a mixed episode.
Mania:
- Elevated energy
- Racing thoughts
- Difficulty concentrating
- Inflated self-value
- Engaging in reckless behavior
- Lack of self-awareness
- Denial of any problem
Hypomania:
Similar symptoms to a manic episode, but milder with:
- Heightened energy
- Heightened productivity
Depression:
- Extreme sadness
- Decrease or increase in appetite
- Changes in sleep
- Low self-esteem
- Difficulty concentrating
- Suicidal thoughts
Mixed episode:
- During a mixed episode, the person experiences symptoms of both mania and depression throughout the day.
For individuals who primarily experience manic episodes, they may not realize there is an issue. It isn't uncommon for individuals to only seek help once they crash into a depressive episode. When left untreated, though, these manic periods can be extremely dangerous and can even result in death.
Treating Mood Disorder with Online Therapy
These mood disorders are often misunderstood. Many people attach a negative stigma to these illnesses, labeling those who suffer from them as "crazy" or "insane." These labels deter people from seeking treatment because they experience feelings of shame and denial.
To avoid going into an office to see a counselor face-to-face, many individuals will sweep their issues under the rug with the hopes that it will go away on its own. Unfortunately, this is rarely the case; when left untreated, these illnesses can have severe effects, including death.
Rather than dismissing the issue at hand, consider turning to the Internet to find an online therapist who can help you through your illness. No matter your diagnosis, mood disorders are easily treated and monitored, even virtually.
Online therapy holds several advantages over face-to-face counseling. It's more affordable, convenient, and flexible. All sessions can be performed from the comfort of your home, and you can make appointments as regularly as you want, no matter the time.
How We Can Help
The Virtual Therapist Network has a wide range of professional online therapists who are trained and experienced in mood disorders and can provide you with online therapy in the comfort and privacy of your own home.
Medication is commonly used to treat mood disorders, which may require you to see a psychiatrist or your general practitioner for a prescription order. If necessary, your online therapist will discuss this with you.
Regardless of how mild or severe your symptoms are, you don't have to suffer anymore. Mood disorders can be confusing to both outsiders and the person suffering, so register with us today and find an online therapist who can help.